Known by the Fruit
Monday, September 7, 2009
by Dr. Paul Chappell
"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them."
Matthew 7:15-20
Inward convictions will always be shown through outward actions.
Here in the Antelope Valley it's apple-picking season. The apples are now a rich red and are ready for families, farmers, or visitors to pick them from their tree. Many families in town like to drive out to the fruit farms and pick the fruit. When choosing a farm though, it is wise to choose the right kind of fruit, the fruit that is in season. It is no use to visit a peach farm now-the peaches are all gone. You must visit the right fruit farm for the season.
But how can you tell which tree is which? Each tree looks similar-trunk, branches, leaves. How are you supposed to know which tree is the right tree? Each tree is known by its fruit. While the trees may look similar outwardly, the fruit, or outward evidence of an inward difference, is what sets each tree apart.
In our verses today, Jesus used the symbolism of fruit to explain a truth. Jesus taught the Jewish people that not everyone who seemed religious or good was truly a follower of Him. Not everyone who prophesied in Christ's name was of God.
With hundreds of people following Him at various points, the Lord knew that not all of them were following because they were committed to Him. Some were curious, others wanted to be part of the action, and some had needs they wanted met. Jesus taught the people that they would know the true followers by their fruit.
The same principle applies today. Many people profess Christ, whether it be for social acceptance, personal advancement, or a desire to be part of something greater than themselves. But the fruit of a person will show their true commitment.
Consider for a moment the fruit of your life. Are you seeing spiritual growth in your life? Are you seeing lives impacted because of your work for Christ? Are your inward beliefs and convictions being lived out through your actions? If not, consider your commitment to Christ. Is He the Lord of your life?
Inward convictions will always be lived out through actions. Whether good or bad, you will be known by your fruit-your outward actions. Do people see the fruit of a committed life to the Lord? Or do people see the fruit of hypocrisy? Take time to evaluate the fruit your life is producing. Ask God to help your outward fruit show a life that is wholly committed to Him.
